Small talk was just small talk.
Fatty Xin did not realize that one casual remark had left only a thin sheet of Silkworm Skin Paper between him and the truth. Like most twists of fate in the world, it was not that yin and yang stood terribly far apart; rather, their connection was too shallow, and the time had not yet come.
After a brief rest, the six members of the You Zui Hunting Team stood before the tent entrance once more.
Only this time, they were no longer relying solely on the spellbooks in their hands. Everyone clutched several talismans with intact Talisman Cores and densely written talismanic strokes; their pockets held a few potions for replenishing magic power and healing wounds; and Xiao Xiao had several clean, beautiful shoulder blades tucked in his arms, perfect for roasting for divination.
Zhang Jixin still led the way, with Jiang Yu and Li Meng in the middle, Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao covering the flanks, and Fatty Xin bringing up the rear.
But as was often the case, danger always descended unexpectedly when people were unprepared; yet when they were fully prepared and waiting in readiness, the risks hanging overhead vanished without a trace.
As Zheng Qing followed Zhang Jixin safely into the tent, that was the thought circling through his mind.
The tent was enormous.
And very quiet.
Apart from the faint ticking of a clock, there was no noise at all. Zheng Qing felt as though he could almost hear the breathing of his companions beside him.
Not far past the entrance was a short flight of steps leading downward, fewer than ten in all. They were covered in soft Persian carpets, echoing the large thangkas hanging on the tent walls, their splendor and grandeur mingled with an indescribable